The Kenya Railways Corporation (KRC) has announced to soon start a train service to western Kenya. This comes after the authority had announced trip services to Nanyuki during the Christmas period from December 31, 2020, to January 2, 2021.
“In 2020 we stuck to our lane and launched services that change lives. Thank you, Kenya for the support! Lakeside and Western Kenya get ready! 2021 is here!” read the report from the auhtority .
The move was lauded by scores of netizens who noted the difference the train services has made in the transport sector. Reports indicates that at least 5,000 travelers opt to use commuter train due to its affordable fare packages.
“I can’t wait, traveling to Bungoma, Busia, Kisumu, Kakamega is still cumbersome. 2021 should make a difference in the area of transport. This will be great. I hope by the end of 2021, everywhere with railway line services will be up and running. Then plans to open up more towns in the country to the railway should start, even if it’s the meter gauge,” a resident commented.
Increased demand
The authority also announced two additional train trips to Nairobi from Nanyuki due to increased demand. The Nanyuki – Nairobi train snakes through a number of stops including; Karatina, Sagana, Makuyu, Muranga, Ruiru and Kahawa. The corporation set Ksh200 as the standard fare.
This has however led to matatu owners calling for a proposed meeting with the KRC officials seeking to find a way to standardize fares across the two modes of transportation. The operators decried the loss of business due to the lower fare rates offered by the commuter train services.
Initially, the corporation had announced plans of revamping the section of the Metre Gauge Railway line leading to the western region. Plans were put in place to link the Standard Gauge Railway line and the Metre Gauge Railway line in order to provide a connection between the Port of Mombasa and Lake Victoria in Kisumu and also at Malaba, the border point with Uganda.
Speaking in a past press briefing, KRC chairman Omudho Awitta disclosed that the construction works were expected to be completed by 2021.
“We are revitalizing the Metre Gauge Railway line to enhance its accessibility and functionality, a process which will upscale the lines’ contribution to national growth,” Awitta stated.
